A poignant photograph capturing an elderly Chinese couple, who shared nearly seven decades of marriage, holding hands in the intensive care unit has gone viral, resonating with millions worldwide.
The image was captured and shared by Wang Yanfang, the head nurse at Yinzhou Hospital’s intensive care unit in Zhejiang Province, eastern China.
The 92-year-old husband, Feng Ming, was initially admitted to the intensive care unit due to heart failure.
Unfortunately, his condition worsened, leading to multiple organ failure and a lung infection.
Unable to communicate verbally, Feng relied on life support to sustain him.
Aware that his life was drawing to a close, his family decided to cease medical intervention and bring him home. However, before leaving the hospital, he expressed one final wish—to see his wife of 66 years.
Coincidentally, Feng’s 95-year-old wife, Zhang Ping, was also hospitalized in the same facility, receiving treatment for a fractured femur on a different floor.
Given the urgency of the situation, Wang, the head nurse, arranged a special encounter between the elderly couple, despite the usual visiting hours. Zhang was transported on a stretcher from the 14th floor to the ICU on the third floor, where Feng awaited his wife.
In a touching moment, Zhang held her husband’s hand and reassured him in their local dialect, saying, “Don’t worry about me. Rest assured that I can take good care of myself.”
Moved by her words, Feng shed tears before peacefully passing away in the comfort of his home several hours later. Reflecting on the experience, Wang expressed gratitude for facilitating the heartfelt reunion, affirming that it was the right decision.
Though heart-wrenching, this story is also a testament to enduring love. Feng and Zhang’s unwavering bond persevered through life’s trials, offering solace and inspiration to many. Such a profound display of affection reaffirms the enduring power of true love.